Killeen Plumbinghttps://kpcohio.com
Killeen Plumbing WebsiteWed, 27 May 2020 00:28:07 +0000en-US
hourly
1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.4.1https://kpcohio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cropped-favicon-32x32.pngKilleen Plumbinghttps://kpcohio.com
3232Flushing Water Lines and Drain Lines before You Reopen Your Businesshttps://kpcohio.com/flushing-water-lines-and-drain-lines-before-you-reopen-your-business/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=flushing-water-lines-and-drain-lines-before-you-reopen-your-business
Wed, 27 May 2020 00:27:28 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29447As businesses begin to reopen, you’re probably starting to put together a list of what you need before customers walk in the door again. One thing you don’t want to forget to do: flushing water lines. In fact, this is such an important step for reopening that the EPA has created a checklist specifically for […]

]]>As businesses begin to reopen, you’re probably starting to put together a list of what you need before customers walk in the door again. One thing you don’t want to forget to do: flushing water lines.

If you have questions about why you need to flush your water system or how to do it, continue reading below.

Why Do I Need to Flush My Building’s Water System?

When your water supply system and drain lines go unused for a period of time, a number of things can happen to the water in the lines. If your system is connected to the municipal supply, it may take in disinfecting properties. But if the water sits still for too long, the disinfectants deplete, causing a biofilm to build up on the inside of the pipes. This biofilm is home to a multitude of microorganisms which can be a health concern.

When the water in the lines is stagnant for a long period of time, it also causes the naturally occurring protective scaling to break down. As the barrier decays, lead and other metals can leak into the supply.

When you flush your water pipes, it removes the built-up sediment at the bottom of the water main.

How do I Flush My Water Lines?

Identify the different zones in your building. Run cold water for 30 minutes, one zone at a time.

Empty out any equipment that stores water, flush it, and refill it. This includes:

Anything that provides drinking water, including water fountains or water coolers with direct lines

Boilers

Cooling towers

Humidifiers

Ice machines

Toilets

Water heaters

Water purifiers

Water softeners

If anything has a filter (e.g.: humidifiers, ice machines), clean or replace the filters while you’re flushing that piece of equipment.

After you refill the water heater, repeat the first step but with hot water.

Don’t forget to disinfect plumbing fixtures. If you can, remove any aerators, and disinfect them as well.

What Follow-Up Steps Should I Take?

Make sure you test the quality of the water to make sure it’s safe or if you’ll need to flush everything again. You’ll want to run each faucet and flush each toilet every day until the traffic in your business returns to normal. That way you won’t have to worry about microorganism regrowth or metal re-collection.

Use Killeen Plumbing for Regular Maintenance to Keep Your Plumbing System Healthy

Routine maintenance directly affects the lifespan of your plumbing system. Killeen Plumbing can help your business’s water system run like clockwork for years to come. We can also flush your water lines for you while you take care of other aspects of reopening your business.

]]>Home Safety During COVID-19https://kpcohio.com/home-safety-during-covid-19/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=home-safety-during-covid-19
https://kpcohio.com/home-safety-during-covid-19/#commentsMon, 13 Apr 2020 20:59:20 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29431We are currently living in a time that can feel uncertain and overwhelming. While we’re all social distancing at home, it’s important to try to stay safe and healthy. We want to provide you with some home safety tips and healthy habits to keep you well. 5 Home Safety Tips While Sheltering at Home […]

]]>We are currently living in a time that can feel uncertain and overwhelming. While we’re all social distancing at home, it’s important to try to stay safe and healthy. We want to provide you with some home safety tips and healthy habits to keep you well.

5 Home Safety Tips While Sheltering at Home

Stop germs before they spread.

The easiest way to stop the spread of germs is to take precautionary steps. These are often simple things like:

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly

Keep your hands away from your face

Never cough or sneeze into your hand – always use a tissue, handkerchief, or your elbow

Don’t go out if you’re sick or have come into contact with a person with symptoms

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) has a helpful household checklist to make sure you keep your family safe by taking proper precautions.

Watch out for children’s safety.

Even though you’re home with your children all day, it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to keep your eye on them all the time. Tiny tots can easily get into trouble in little to no time. Keep things out of the reach of children such as:

Hot items (pots from the stove, fresh coffee, etc.)

Small items which can be swallowed

Sharp objects such as crafting scissors

Cleaning supplies

Plants which can be poisonous if ingested

Electrical wires

Older children can get into trouble as well if left to their own devices for too long. Be sure to check on children of all ages at least every 15 – 30 minutes if they’re in a separate room than you.

The health benefits of kitchen safety.

The health benefits of the kitchen don’t wholly revolve around healthy and unhealthy foods.Since you’re at home all day, you’re probably cooking a lot more often. You can save lives by following these few simple steps:

Keep any flammable objects away from the stove and oven

Do not leave anything on the stove unattended

Leave extra space around appliances for ventilation

Do not drape electrical cords across (potentially) hot surfaces

If you smell gas coming from your oven or stove, turn off any burners, turn on the hood vent, open windows, and get everyone outside while the fresh air flushes the house – call a professional if you deem it necessary

Test your smoke detectors to make sure they’re all in working order. Keep one in your kitchen, at least one in or near the bedrooms, and one on each level of your home.

Test carbon monoxide detectors as well since carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and is especially dangerous while you sleep.

Stay healthy.

An important part of the public health initiative is staying healthy at home, too.

Keep your home clean by disinfecting common surfaces such as light switches, countertops, doorknobs, and remote controls frequently.

Stay physically active with all family members by going on walks, using YouTube video workouts, frequenting your in-home gym, or taking advantage of the many wellness apps available on your phone.

Keep a well-balanced diet, and keep snacking in check.

Don’t ignore your mental health — get plenty of sleep, take breaks from reading or watching the news, and make time to talk or video chat with friends and family.

Killeen is Still Here to Help

While you’re staying safe in your Cleveland area home, you may have some issues pop up. If you have a plumbing issue, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. As an essential business, we are open and practicing safe service. We are also providing as many distancing options as possible, whether that means emails with pictures or videos, FaceTime, or any other apps so we can help you limit the number of trips we need to make into your home.

We are so thankful for the kindness and support we’ve seen for small businesses like ours during this time, and it means a great deal to us. We want to continue to use our services to support you during this chaotic time.

]]>https://kpcohio.com/home-safety-during-covid-19/feed/2Waterproofing Your Basement: Dos and Don’tshttps://kpcohio.com/waterproofing-your-basement-dos-and-donts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=waterproofing-your-basement-dos-and-donts
Fri, 20 Mar 2020 23:36:16 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29378Without proper waterproofing, your home can see many issues in the future including structural damage. You may think the solution is a simple coat of product to the interior walls and floors, but the problem may stem from the exterior walls. Let’s take a look at the process of waterproofing your basement. The Dos […]

]]>Without proper waterproofing, your home can see many issues in the future including structural damage. You may think the solution is a simple coat of product to the interior walls and floors, but the problem may stem from the exterior walls.

Let’s take a look at the process of waterproofing your basement.

The Dos and Don’ts of Waterproofing Your Basement

Do determine where the water is coming from.

Look for streaks along walls to signal where the water is leaking in. Check to see that the landscaping is graded away from the home. Make sure the gutters are not overflowing.

If all that looks good and you still have moisture, it’s time to hire a plumber to inspect the storm system around the home. They can use a camera to determine if there are any blocked or compromised pipes adding to the problem.

Do dig around the exterior basement wall(s).

Hire a professional to dig down all the way to the foundation drains and install a cleanout to inspect the lines. Sometimes a simple blockage will cause the water to build up and seep in. Cleaning and inspecting these drains lines sometimes eliminates the need to do further waterproofing.

At the same time, they can add any necessary water drainage solutions to keep water flowing away from your home.

Do check for cracks.

A professional waterproofing company will check for cracks during the excavation process. Cracks can allow outside water to seep in and cause water damage.

Do apply sealant and a membrane.

If you or the contractor find any cracks during the inspection, the next step is to seal them. A cement-based sealant can be easily applied to concrete and masonry surfaces.

A waterproof membrane can then be added to the foundation wall to further block outside water. This membrane will move and adjust should further cracks appear.

Don’t use tar or plastic.

Both of these items should be avoided for waterproofing. Tar will eventually become brittle and crack, leaving you to start all over again. Similarly, plastic will peel, allowing moisture back in again.

Don’t fix a leak with waterproof paint.

Concrete walls are porous. Waterproof paint only sits on the surface of the concrete and never permeates the pores, therefore never bonding with the wall. As water seeps in, it brings minerals with it that continue to build up behind the waterproof paint.

As it builds up, the paint flakes away, putting you back at square one. Waterproof paint is a temporary fix that generally lasts 6-24 months.

Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It?

Absolutely. Your return on investment will be dependent on the size of your home, the area you live, and the amount of waterproofing. But it’s a valuable home improvement that’s worth the initial investment.

If you plan on selling your home at any point, a leaky or damp basement can cause you some trouble during the selling process. If a home inspector notices it (which they will), they can lower the value of your home and scare away potential buyers.

Even if you plan on staying in your home for years to come, a wet basement can damage valuable property, and insurance may not cover it.

How Long does Basement Waterproofing Last

The length of time waterproofing lasts depends on a few different factors including the amount of waterproofing product used, climate, and the severity of the initial damage. With all the different constituents, there’s no set date, but most professionals will warranty it for about ten years.

Call Killeen to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

Waterproofing your home or office can better protect against water damage from flooding, rain, and more. Killeen Plumbing can help you figure out what areas of your home are most vulnerable to damage.

]]>What to Do if Your Toilet is Gurglinghttps://kpcohio.com/what-to-do-if-your-toilet-is-gurgling/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-to-do-if-your-toilet-is-gurgling
https://kpcohio.com/what-to-do-if-your-toilet-is-gurgling/#commentsThu, 13 Feb 2020 18:14:48 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29298You’ve recently noticed that on occasion, your toilet is gurgling. It’s not when you flush it or when it seems normal to make a noise like that. No, it’s making the noise at seemingly random intervals. Also, when you flush it, sometimes you hear that same gurgling coming from other sinks throughout the house. Everything […]

]]>You’ve recently noticed that on occasion, your toilet is gurgling. It’s not when you flush it or when it seems normal to make a noise like that.

No, it’s making the noise at seemingly random intervals.

Also, when you flush it, sometimes you hear that same gurgling coming from other sinks throughout the house.

Everything else seems to be working normally – it’s just that odd sound.

Should you be concerned?

In short, yes.

If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your toilet, that means there is negative pressure building up in your drain line. When that happens, it creates an airlock.

Air should be able to flow freely in a normal drain pipe, letting waste flow away quickly and without issue. It’s able to do so thanks to normalized airflow.

But when those gurgling noises start appearing, that means the line has developed negative air pressure. Eventually, that pressure will release, sending air upwards and back into your toilet bowl. When that happens, you’ll hear the gurgling sound, possibly see bubbles in the water, and you may even witness the toilet flush on its own.

Where does the negative pressure come from?

This negative pressure could be coming from two places:

Somewhere in the drainage system, which can mean anywhere starting near the toilet all the way to the main sewer system

Your home’s vent stack (the vent stack is the pipe in your home which lets any gases from the sewer line to exit through the roof)

While it may seem like just an annoyance right now, that gurgle is a sign that there is an issue.

Even if it’s a small one, it can become a bigger issue later on.

What should I do if my toilet is gurgling?

If left untreated, a gurgling toilet can lead to sewage backing up into toilets and tubs which can quickly turn into a mess. So you’ll want to take action as soon as possible.

Start with a plunger

If the noise is caused by a simple clog in the drain, plunging it may solve the problem. However, if the blockage is downstream of the toilet, you may accidentally destroy the wax seal on the base of the toilet and cause another problem, leakage of water or sewer gas.

See if your neighbors are having similar issues

If the issue stems from the city’s portion of the plumbing system, it’s more than likely that you’re not the only one with a noisy toilet or something similar.

Your neighbors may confirm the issue for you, and if they do, call your local sewer authority to report it. They’ll be able to send someone out to investigate the sewer drain and get the issue under control.

Try snaking the drain

If the clog isn’t too far down the line, you can try to clear out the plumbing problem with a manual toilet auger, also referred to as a snake.

The snake has a head with blades that can cut through even the most stubborn of clogs. If you don’t already have one on hand, there are options for both manual and motorized snakes.

However, if the clog is further down the line, you’ll want to call a plumber. A professional will have an auger that reaches much deeper, and they also have cameras that can properly diagnose the issue. They’ll also come in handy in case the toilet needs to be removed to allow for larger auger heads.

Check the vent stack for a clog

Your home’s vent stack supplies air to the drains in order to prevent any airlocks. But if it gets a clog from debris or even small critters, it can restrict the airflow, causing the gurgle you hear.

To check and clear a clog, you’ll have to climb up to the roof. If you’re not comfortable with that, like many people, call in a professional. They can quickly find and remove the clog while your feet are planted firmly on the ground.

Contact a plumber

If none of these suggestions seemed to do the trick, it’s time to reach out to a licensed professional. A plumber will have the equipment and training that you don’t have to fix your plumbing issues.

And if the issue is more serious than you thought (like a collapsed pipe from tree roots), a professional can help diagnose the issue and take the next steps.

]]>https://kpcohio.com/what-to-do-if-your-toilet-is-gurgling/feed/1Basement Bathrooms: 6 Things to Consider Before Constructionhttps://kpcohio.com/basement-bathroom-6-things-to-consider-before-construction/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=basement-bathroom-6-things-to-consider-before-construction
https://kpcohio.com/basement-bathroom-6-things-to-consider-before-construction/#commentsFri, 17 Jan 2020 13:43:46 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29254There are many reasons why you may be thinking about adding a basement bathroom to your home. They add value to your home. They create extra amenities and space if you have more than one person in the home. And they add convenience, especially if you want to turn your basement into an apartment […]

]]>There are many reasons why you may be thinking about adding a basement bathroom to your home.

They add value to your home. They create extra amenities and space if you have more than one person in the home. And they add convenience, especially if you want to turn your basement into an apartment or mother-in-law suite.

But there are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration before you begin contracting out your job.

1. Permits & Zoning

Reaching out to your local building authority should probably be your first step after deciding on a basement bathroom remodel or complete build.

Any home improvement project of this caliber is going to come with zoning ordinances and deed restrictions to help keep you and your family safe in the future. Contacting the building authority first will keep you from running into issues in the middle of construction which you could avoid in the first place.

2. Drainage

Sewer-line depth isn’t a challenge for every home. Sometimes the drainage lines are deep enough to use gravity-assisted disposal, even with a below-ground plumbing system. If the lines are not deep enough, there are many different options we could provide.

Depending on where you live, waste may drain into municipal lines, so you’ll need a backwater valve, and that may require a permit. If it does, your plumbing contractor can help you with that.

If your plumbing doesn’t drain into city lines, you probably have a septic tank. For home septic tanks, you’ll just need to make sure they’re deep enough for sub-level plumbing.

If your drainage lines aren’t deep enough, that’s going to require some extra effort and a larger budget. Generally, you’ll have to remove a portion of the floor to excavate under it. It’s more expensive, but it’s still possible.

Pipe size should also be included when considering drainage. Existing pipes that are too small can cause issues of their own, so so your plumber may need to replace them with larger pipes for proper drainage.

3. Basement Moisture

Every bathroom needs ventilation, but basement bathrooms need it the most.

Moisture is trapped and leads to issues like mold and mildew as basements don’t have natural ventilation. So it’s extremely important to properly size your ventilation fan when adding a bathroom to your basement. Otherwise, the moisture from the shower, toilet, and sink will start to contribute to the aforementioned moisture problems.

You should also consider adding a bathroom exhaust fan timer so you never forget to ventilate the room completely. A timer will also keep you from running the fan for longer than needed and using up unnecessary energy.

4. Location

If your basement has a lot of square footage, you’ll probably have a lot of space to choose from for the location of your new bathroom. But before you start mapping everything out, take a look at where your current plumbing and electrical lines exist.

If you build in a spot that has to have all new lines run, it’s going to be more expensive than building where lines are already present. But building near these lines, on the other hand, can cut down on costs for hookups and make planning a little easier.

5. Size and Cost

Are you building a half-bath for a little extra convenience? Perhaps you are going all out with a full bathroom with a laundry space and everything.

Depending on the size of the area you’re creating in your newly finished basement space, you may need to adjust your budget for plumbing lines.

As we mentioned above, every home is different when it comes to drainage. Besides plumbing for your toilet, you’ll also need to consider drain lines for the shower drain, the sink, and any laundry hookups as well as incoming water lines.

The best way to get an accurate cost for all of your drain pipes and water lines is to contact a licensed plumber for an estimate.

6. Style

For most of us, form is just as important as function.

Maybe you want to create something cozy with a heated basement floor, warm colors, and an old-fashioned style bathtub. Or maybe you want something more modern with concrete floors, a digital shower control, and a vessel sink.

Regardless of your style, there’s something out there for everyone that will fit their style, their needs, and their budget.

If you’re looking for some bathroom design inspiration, check out the styles from our trust brands.

And when choosing the best toilet for your new addition, use our handy reference guide to pick the right one.

Once you’ve considered the permits and zoning regulations, drainage, moisture, location, size and cost, and style, you’ll be ready to start your project. Just be sure to contact a licensed professional like Killeen Plumbing to handle any plumbing required so it doesn’t turn into a DIY disaster.

]]>https://kpcohio.com/basement-bathroom-6-things-to-consider-before-construction/feed/1Dealing with Frozen Pipeshttps://kpcohio.com/dealing-with-frozen-pipes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dealing-with-frozen-pipes
Thu, 12 Dec 2019 14:38:12 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29147It’s finally Ohio’s most well-known season. The season where traffic comes to a halt from ice-related accidents, where our kids wake up early to see if it’s a snow day, and where homeowners live in fear of frozen pipes bursting. But you don’t have to be in constant worry of water damage or replacing broken […]

]]>It’s finally Ohio’s most well-known season. The season where traffic comes to a halt from ice-related accidents, where our kids wake up early to see if it’s a snow day, and where homeowners live in fear of frozen pipes bursting.

But you don’t have to be in constant worry of water damage or replacing broken pipes if you know what causes the problem and how to prevent it from happening.

Let’s take a look.

Why Do My Pipes Freeze in the Winter?

Pipes are like anything else exposed to the cold. When they get to a low enough temperature, they freeze. However, because the water is almost always in motion, it takes much longer to freeze. That’s why lake or pond water freezes over much more quickly than bodies of running water such as rivers.

So when we get alerts for winter storms or unusually low temperatures, we need to take precautions.

Why Do Pipes Burst when They Freeze?

Water in pipes works the same way as water in any other location. Let’s use your freezer as an example.

You put an ice cube tray in overnight to solidify for tomorrow night’s holiday party. You fill each slot almost to the top, but not quite all the way. The next morning you pull them out and see that the water has overflowed, and the individual cubes are now one uniform piece.

This happens because water expands when it freezes. The molecules slow down and push away from each other as the temperature drops, causing the water to cover more area.

When the water is in an ice cube tray, it can easily expand upwards where there is space for it. However, in your water pipes, there’s nowhere to go but out.

The pressure from the building ice weakens the structure of the pipe and eventually splits a hole in it, allowing the expanding water to pour out.

How to Prevent Pipes from Bursting

If you turn on a faucet and notice that the water is not flowing freely, you probably have a frozen pipe on your hands. You want to take steps right away to get the frozen area back to normal before you have a burst pipe.

Before the weather gets too cold, locate your main water shutoff valve. You’ll want to know exactly where it is in case you don’t catch the line before it bursts and can shut off the water supply quickly. Make sure it works before you attempt to thaw the line. If no water is flowing and the line is frozen, you may want to have a plumber thaw the line for you in case it is already damaged. You won’t know until you thaw it in most cases, and then it may be too late. The thaw is when emergency situations occur.

The pipes closest to exterior walls and the outside world are most susceptible to freezing. That includes supply lines for pools and water sprinklers, lines that run through your basement or attic, and even pipes that run to the kitchen. Leave the faucet running a little to help alleviate some of the pressure building up in the pipe. Please make sure your sink is draining great if you use this method. Keeping cabinet doors open with sinks on outside walls is also helpful.

If you notice an issue with one frozen pipe, you probably have another somewhere. Let all the faucets in your home run for a couple of minutes to see where other problem areas may lie.

Apply low heat to the frozen section of the water line to melt ice forming inside. Try towels soaked in hot water or a hair dryer. Do not use an open flame to thaw the pipe under any circumstance. It can damage the pipe or ignite any flammable materials nearby.

If you can’t reach the pipes, or if your pipe has already burst, contact a professional plumber right away. They’ll give you steps to take until they can come out and inspect or replace the pipes.

]]>Sump Pump 101: Basics for Homeownershttps://kpcohio.com/sump-pump-101-basics/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sump-pump-101-basics
https://kpcohio.com/sump-pump-101-basics/#commentsFri, 08 Nov 2019 19:42:55 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29079If you don’t know already, a sump pump can save your home a lot of hassle. If your home has a sump pit or basin, this small piece of equipment pumps out water that fills in the pit and carries it away from the home through pipes so it can drain safely. It might not […]

]]>If you don’t know already, a sump pump can save your home a lot of hassle. If your home has a sump pit or basin, this small piece of equipment pumps out water that fills in the pit and carries it away from the home through pipes so it can drain safely. It might not sound like much, but it has probably saved you from a flooded basement or mildew on more than one occasion.

If you’ve ever sustained any kind of water damage, you’ll know how expensive it can be and how long it can take before everything is resolved. Your sump pump keeps you from having to deal with those frustrations.

Because this is an item not usually highlighted in homeownership information, many homeowners have questions about their sump pump, and we want to help answer them.

Why would I have a sump pump?

Typically because the foundation drain is too deep to drain via gravity to the storm sewer. If it can’t drain properly, it can overflow and cause damage to the home.

How does a sump pump work?

Every sump pump has a sensor called a float. When your pump is installed, the sensor is set to a specific height. Then when the water in your sump pit reaches that height, the pump activates and carries the water away through a discharge pipe where it can drain safely away from your home’s foundation into the higher sewer.

What should I consider when purchasing a sump pump?

First and foremost, consult an expert. They can help you determine the best pump type and size for your property. You’ll also want to consider:

Horsepower based on the likelihood of your home flooding. If your property sits in a high-flood area, you will want something greater than ⅓ HP.

How high the pump should raise the water (this is referred to as head pressure)

The voltage you want, depending on whether you need a standard residential pump or a higher voltage industrial one

Cord length to reach the outlet as you never want to use an extension cord as a permanent solution.

If you prefer to have a battery backup and alert system in case the pump fails.

Does that mean the pump can fail?

Failure does happen on occasion due to a few different factors:

Power outages, which we’re not unfamiliar with in the Greater Cleveland area (so you may wish to consider a battery backup option or water back up option.)

If the float valve becomes stuck or damaged

If the motor or impeller breaks

The drainage pipe may be clogged or frozen

Or if the water is coming in faster than the pump can expel it.

If one or more of these are a concern for your home, you’ll want to weigh the option of purchasing a backup sump pump such as a battery powered option.

Does a sump pump require maintenance from the homeowner?

Sump pumps are a reliable piece of equipment, but just like any other appliance in your home, regular maintenance is always advised. But it doesn’t have to be often or take long. Just take a few minutes each season, particularly when heavy rains are common such as in early spring and late fall, to make sure your pump is up to par. There are a few basic tasks you can do:

Make sure the outlet that powers the pump is working and that the cord hasn’t sustained any damage.

Is the pump upright? The vibrations from the motor can oftentimes cause it to fall over which may disable the float, leaving it incapable of starting up if the basin begins to fill.

If you are able, remove the pump from the pit and clear away any debris from the bottom grate. The suction the pump creations can pull in small stones and other runoff which can mar the equipment over time.

Lift the float switch to activate the pump. If it doesn’t start up, contact a professional to service it.

If there is no damage and it does activate, ensure that the water is properly draining away from your foundation. If it’s not, check to make sure the pipes are joined correctly and not loose.

Do you have any other tips?

Sometimes water can come in faster than it can be pushed out. If you don’t already have one, get an alarm sensor that will alert you if the water level rises too high.

As we mentioned above, Northeast Ohio is prone to power outages from heavy rain, wind storms, and snow. Because most sump pumps run on electricity, they will not operate during an outage, which is bad news in thunderstorms and downpours. Look into a battery or water backup options, generators so you don’t end up with a flooded basement during one of these times. Most importantly make sure you have the right insurance.

Perform basic maintenance on your pump every season. If something doesn’t work quite right, contact a professional right away. You don’t want to put it off and then get caught in a storm without a functional sump pump.

Have an annual inspection. A professional can review things a homeowner won’t be able to such as:

Cleaning the pit

A properly functioning check valve on the discharge pipe

Whether or not the backup power source is working correctly and if it needs to be replaced

If the alarm is operating suitably

Determine if the pump is recirculating or not.

If you have any other questions regarding your home’s sump pump system, need a specialist to repair it, or need to replace your old one, Killeen Plumbing is more than happy to help you protect your home. Reach out to us on our contact page, or give us a call at 440-871-1112.

]]>https://kpcohio.com/sump-pump-101-basics/feed/2When to Call a Plumberhttps://kpcohio.com/when-to-call-a-plumber/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=when-to-call-a-plumber
Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:29:52 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=29010There are moments as a homeowner when you can handle a minor repair by yourself. But there come many moments when a professional is required. When there’s No Water Rarely will water be cut off to the entire home. It’s more likely that it’s localized to just one area when you have no flow. […]

]]>There are moments as a homeowner when you can handle a minor repair by yourself. But there come many moments when a professional is required.

When there’s No Water

Rarely will water be cut off to the entire home. It’s more likely that it’s localized to just one area when you have no flow.

To confirm that it’s just one area, check both the hot and cold supplies at each water outlet. If you’re getting cold water but no hot, it’s likely that you have a problem with the hot water heater.

But if you happen to not be getting hot or cold water anywhere in the house, you’re looking at a much more serious issue. It could be a burst water pipe from beyond your water meter, or it could even be an issue with your meter.

When there’s Low Water Pressure

Just like when no water reaches an area of your home, low water pressure also means that there may be an issue with an outside source. But a more common reason for it is a build-up of deposits.

As water flows through your pipes, it drops dissolved minerals that adhere to metal surfaces over time. With filtration systems, they get stuck in the filters, and with systems that have no filtration, they build up on surfaces like showerheads or faucets. This buildup causes the flow of water to decrease.

Soaking your showerhead or faucet overnight in vinegar will often break up the deposits, but if you still notice low flow, there may be a more serious issue – an issue like a leak. And that’s a cause to call a plumber who can pinpoint the issue and find a fix quickly.

When there’s a Bad Supply Line Leak

This is not a common issue, but it does happen. And when it happens, it’s never pleasant. When there’s a rapid supply line leak, it can cause extensive flooding damage, so you have to act quickly.

If you come home and your basement is filling with water, follow these steps immediately:

Look for a cutoff valve near the leak to stop the intermediary supply.

Find the main water shut-off valve, and turn it off as well.

Call a plumber, and ask them to come out directly.

When You Have a Drainage Line Leak

A drainage line leak is a whole separate monster from a leak in a sink trap. If you have a leak in the drainpipe below your sink, that’s generally no problem. Most homeowners can take care of that themselves by shutting off the water and replacing the trap. But a drainage line issue is quite different.

Because drainage lines stretch so much farther than the area beneath your sink, they’re not easily accessible. They’re sealed up behind walls, and when they’re leaking, they can cause massive damage to drywall, paint, subfloor, and more. Your best course of action is to call a plumber as soon as you notice the leak.

When there’s a Gas Leak from Your Water Heater

If you have a gas-powered water heater, your pilot light heats the thermocouple which tells the system to keep supplying the gas. When the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple, in turn, shuts off the gas flow.

Smelling gas near your heater is a sign that you should immediately call a plumber. The smell of gas means either the thermocouple malfunctioned and the gas hasn’t shut off as it should, or there could be a leak in the pipes which lead to the heater.

When You Notice a Gaseous Odor or a Sewer Line Leak

This is an issue that you should absolutely not try to fix on your own.

Your sewer line plays a pivotal role as it transfers all the wastewater away from your home. But over time, you may experience pools of murky water accumulating in the yard or toilets filling up when you run water to a sink. These signs often are the effects of a broken or clogged sewer pipe.

And because your home cannot properly operate without this line, you need to call a plumber the moment you notice anything amiss. A company like Killeen Plumbing can do an inspection, identify the issue, and find a solution quickly so your home can function as it should once more.

When You Want to Prevent Costly Repairs

Routine maintenance performed by a professional is an easy way to make sure you don’t have to worry about expensive, surprise repairs later on. Tiny leaks can eventually become a big problem. Having a trained professional look over your system may cost a little out of pocket now, but it’ll save you a lot later on.

When You have an Installation on Your Hands

Pipework, new bathtubs or showers, and new sinks should always be handled by a professional. Part of why you shouldn’t handle it yourself is due to strict codes and guidelines professionals are trained to understand and follow, but it’s also for your own safety.

If you notice any of these issues happening in your Cleveland area home currently, contact us right away.

]]>Replace Your Toilet: A Guide of Optionshttps://kpcohio.com/replace-your-toilet-a-guide-of-options/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=replace-your-toilet-a-guide-of-options
https://kpcohio.com/replace-your-toilet-a-guide-of-options/#commentsTue, 03 Sep 2019 08:00:44 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=28845You and your family have been settled into your home for years, but nothing is unchanging. You’ve been telling your significant other for the last year that you need to replace your toilet in the upstairs bathroom, but it hasn’t seemed like a priority. It’s the same one that was had been there for years […]

]]>You and your family have been settled into your home for years, but nothing is unchanging. You’ve been telling your significant other for the last year that you need to replace your toilet in the upstairs bathroom, but it hasn’t seemed like a priority. It’s the same one that was had been there for years with the previous owner, and you know that it’s nearing the end of its journey. Just the other day, the handle fell off of the toilet as little Tommy tried to flush it, and that was the last straw.

It’s now time to finally replace your toilet. But where do you start?

Believe it or not, the options today are plenty. In fact, there are so many designs with added technology that you may start to feel overwhelmed. So we put together this handy guide to help you figure out what will work best for you and your family by asking you the right questions:

How do you want your new toilet to look?

How do you want your new toilet to function?

How high-tech would you like your new toilet?

How Do You Want Your New Toilet to Look?

For many, design is just as important as function. There are many different sleek options available, but the most important features come down to bowl height and bowl shape.

Do you want it higher or lower?

A standard toilet sits at about 15” high, which is comfortable for most adults. But for some, this height can be a little low. A Comfort Height toilet sits 2 inches higher and may be more convenient for the elderly or taller individuals to get up.

But if you have small children in the home and have a separate bathroom for them, you may want to decide if a shorter toilet is the right way to go.

What kind of shape do you want?

Your current toilet probably has a round bowl, and you may want to continue to stick with that shape for your family. They fit well in smaller bathrooms, they’re reasonably priced, they’re great for potty training if you have young children, and they’re generally comfortable for the average person.

But they don’t always do well for people with different needs. If you’re a larger/taller person, desire more powerful flushing, or just want a more modern look, look into elongated models

How Do You Want Your New Toilet to Function?

Most toilets that you’ve come across are what are referred to as gravity flush style. In simple terms, that means the toilet flushes by using gravity rather than using mechanical assistance. There’s a rubber flap that opens up when you depress the handle which lets gravity do all the work.

But this isn’t the only option you have.

Do you want more pressure?

If so, you may want to consider a pressure-assisted toilet. If you’re not sure what those are, think about the ones you see in public bathrooms. While they’re more common in those settings, there are versions that are available for home installation.

Benefits:

They stay cleaner for longer.

You’re less likely to experience clogs.

Negatives:

They do cost more than standard gravity flush options.

They can be significantly louder.

Do you want something a little more environmentally friendly?

Then you may want to look into dual flush toilets. This style has a combination of gravity flush and pressure-assisted system. It allows you to use the gravity flush for liquid waste to save on water or the pressure-assisted for solid waste so you don’t have to fear clogs.

Benefits:

You conserve more water.

They can help lower your utility bill but only by a small margin.

Negatives:

You have to make sure you know which button is which, or you’ll end up flushing twice and using excess water instead of saving.

Maintenance can be a little more costly.

It may require more frequent cleaning.

Do you want to save yourself from germs?

While germs don’t even come to mind for some people when looking for a replacement toilet, to others it’s at the top of their list of priorities. If it’s important to you, you may want to replace your toilet with one that uses touchless flushing.

Some models have the touchless design built-in, but if you find a model you prefer that’s not touchless, you can more often than not modify it with a touchless system.

This type of system allows you to flush by waving your hand over a sensor instead of touching a handle that many others have touched. This can be a benefit for those worried about germs as well as those who have trouble with traditional handles (e.g.: someone with arthritis or an elderly member of the family with minimal muscle strength).

Benefits:

Interaction with fewer germs.

Negatives:

They run on electric, so you won’t be able to flush during a power outage.

How High-Tech Would You Like Your New Toilet?

With the advancement of technology, everything has more options now – including your bathroom appliances.

If that’s something that interests you, there are many new possibilities: temperature-controlled seating for those cold, Cleveland winters; attached bidets and driers; self-cleaning toilets to check something off of your long list of chores; LED lights; and even remote controls.

These add-ons aren’t for everyone, but you should consider if any of them are important to you as you begin your journey to replace your toilet.

]]>https://kpcohio.com/replace-your-toilet-a-guide-of-options/feed/4How to Lower Your Water Bill [Tips]https://kpcohio.com/how-to-lower-your-water-bill-tips/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-lower-your-water-bill-tips
Fri, 02 Aug 2019 12:38:07 +0000https://kpcohio.com/?p=28713Did You Know… ..that water usage accounts for up to 18% of your energy costs? It’s true. No one likes to use more energy than they have to. It’s bad for the environment, and it’s bad for your wallet. So we’ve put together a list of energy-saving tips and tricks to help lower your water […]

..that water usage accounts for up to 18% of your energy costs? It’s true.

No one likes to use more energy than they have to. It’s bad for the environment, and it’s bad for your wallet. So we’ve put together a list of energy-saving tips and tricks to help lower your water bill.

Tips and Tricks for a Lower Water Bill

Check and Replace Water Tank Insulation

Take a look at the age of your water tank. Older models often have insulation that is outdated and therefore causing a significant heat loss.

If it has an R-value of 24 or higher, then you’re fine. But if it’s lower, you may be losing more in savings than you think.

Adding new, higher-rated insulation can save you 7-16% on your water bill by cutting heat loss by 25-45%.

If you want to save even more, you should consider a full-replacement — especially if your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. Newer models are generally more efficient than older ones. So while the cost is a little more upfront, it’s going to save you over time.

Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater

One of the downfalls of standard tank-style water heaters is that they hold gallons upon gallons of water, and they’re trying to keep it heated. In order to do that, they have to spend energy warming the water, even when you’re not using it.

Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only heat the water as you need it. That means they are only using energy when you’re using water.

These systems do tend to be a little more costly in the beginning than standard models, but the long-term savings are undeniable. Depending on your water habits, you could see a payback on your tankless system in just 5-6 years.

Fix Leaky Faucets

You may think that drip, drip, drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet is no big deal, but it’s pulling money right out of your pocket all month long. As it continues to drip, you are slowly increasing your cost per gallon.

Makes sure you call a professional to fix any faulty faucets in your home as soon as you notice them. And if there’s one that’s been an issue for a while, make that call today.

If you would like to see a better idea of how much your leaky faucet is adding to your water bill, check out this drip calculator.

Lower the Hot Water Heater’s Thermometer

Take a look at your water heater’s thermometer. There’s a chance it’s set higher than you need.

When your heater is installed, it’s often left on the manufacturer’s setting – most often 140°F. Your heater is then working all day, using up valuable energy, to keep the water in the tank at that temperature. And that drives up your energy bills each month.

But more often than not, you don’t need it set quite that high. Reach out to a professional like Killeen Plumbing about setting your temperature back to something that’s a little friendlier for your wallet but still comfortable for you and your family.

Switch to Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star is a program created and run by the Department of Energy and the EPA to promote energy efficiency. So if you are looking to replace an appliance to save money on energy costs, look for something that is Energy Star certified.

An Energy Star certified washing machine will use 40-50% less energy than non-certified models and use 55% less water. Dishwashers will be 12% more efficient than other traditional models. And water heaters will save you on both your water bill and your electrical costs.

If you’re interested in learning more or ready to start shopping, here’s a handy buying guide to get you started.

Switch-up Your Hot Water Habits

If you don’t have the budget for a new appliance but want to start saving now, just start with adjusting some of your hot water habits:

Wash your laundry on a cold cycle as often as possible. Using cold water rather than warm or hot means no excess energy to heat up the water.

Use the cold rinse setting if available. Many washers have settings that read “Hot/Cold, Warm/Cold, etc.” Use the Cold/Cold setting as often as you can to save energy on both your wash and rinse cycles.

Shorten shower time and cut out baths. According to Reference.com, the average person uses about 150 gallons of hot water for a single shower. The average bath tub holds 24 gallons when filled completely, so if your preference is to take a bath, you can safely assume you’re using at least half of that. And if you’re someone who lets out water and refills it with warmer water as the temperature cools, you’re using much more.

Install low-flow showerhead for extra savings. Depending on your choice, a low-flow showerhead can cut down on half of your water use. When combined with a shorter shower, you’ll end up using just a fraction of what you were before.

Only run your dishwasher when it is full. A smaller load is going to use the same amount of water. So when you run multiple loads that are not full, you use more hot water than necessary.